Print

JOHN 21:1-14

"I'M GOING FISHING"

Intro: This section Epilogue in story of Christ. It is a Chapter on Christian service.

I. SYMBOLIC OF CHRISTIAN MINISTRY.
        A. Serving in energy of the flesh.
        B. Fruitfulness of such service.
        C. Lead by Christ in service - fruitfulness of such leading.
        D. The Lord's provision for His servants.
        E. Love the only true motive.
        F. The Lord's knowledge, He appoints the time and manner of His servants death.
        G. The Lord concludes by leaving prospect of His return, not for death. They are to
           look for Him.

II. JESUS SHOWED HIMSELF."
        A. Lord was seen of them for forty days.

III. AT THE SEA OF TIBERIAS.
        "Go into Galilee and they shall see me there."

IV. "I GO A FISHING."  vs. 3
        A. The Lord hod given orders to fish for men.
        B. The fact they caught nothing indicates we can't expect God to bless us when we run
           unsent. "Without me ye can do nothing."
        C. "We also go with thee." Instead of seeking Divine guidance.

V. VS. 4 "KNEW NOT IT WAS JESUS."
        A. Spiritual faculties not in exercise.
                1. How often He draws near and we know it not.

VI. "CHILDREN" HAVE YOU ANY MEAT."
        A. Not Greek "tekna" word of affection.
                1. "Sirs."
                2. Spoke not in intimacies of love.
        B. He knew they didn't, why did He ask?
                1. Wanted confession of failure.
                2. Before He gives us an abundant supply, He wants to make us conscious of our
                   own emptiness.

VII. "CAST NET ON THE OTHER SIDE."
        A. Manifestation of sovereignty.
        B. Success in ministry not due to eloquence or power of persuasion. His drawing power.

VIII. Vs. 6, 7  "IT IS THE LORD."
        A. This should be recognition at any little success we might know.
        B. As we admire nature.
        C. Even when setbacks come.
        D. Blind chance does not rule our lives.

IX. Vs. 7 "CAST HIMSELF INTO THE SEA."
        A. Peter first to act. Walking on water.
                1. Peter left full net of fish for Christ.

X. Vs. 8

XI. Vs. 9
        He cares for our bodies as well as our souls.

What six men could not do in energy of the flesh, one man now did.